Reservoirs and Redoubts: Shing Mun and the "Gin Drinkers Line" Hike

We will join historian, Jason Wordie on a Sunday morning walk and learn about the Pacific War period and enjoy some of Hong Kong’s magnificent open countryside. This adventurous, multi-layered walk expands on the overall significance of the defended area around the Shing Mun Reservoir.

We will visit the surviving tunnels and emplacements of the pre-war Inner Line - popularly referred to as the "Gin Drinker's Line". This twelve-acre underground citadel formed the largest single entity in an extended defensive complex that extended right across the Kowloon hills from Gin Drinker’s Bay to Port Shelter. On this visit, Jason will inform us how and why these tunnels were built – and subsequently defended.

Jason will extensively discuss their role in the tense years that led up to the eventual defence of Hong Kong in 1941. After the reservoir’s capture by the Japanese, water supplies to urban areas, particularly those on Hong Kong Island, were critically affected. This desperate situation materially affected the eventual outcome of the Hong Kong campaign.

Bring a torch and come prepared for an unexpected – and very scenic - experience of Hong Kong’s recent past.

Be sure to come prepared for the heat, with sun screen, a hat, plenty of water and a snack.

Please note: this walk requires a reasonable level of fitness as there is a stretch of uphill walking.